Kumar Bahukhandi
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday listened to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address at the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’, broadcast from Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, at his residence office here.
He described the moment as significant for the country’s women, stating that it will further strengthen and widen the democratic framework.
Chief Minister said the effort to ensure women’s participation from “Panchayat to Parliament” reflects the direction of a changing India. He noted that the direct involvement of women in decision-making forms a strong foundation for a developed nation.
He said the discussion on the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’ in Parliament on April 16 marks an important step towards giving shape to this initiative.
Chief Minister further added that women have always held a respected place in India’s cultural tradition. From the Vedic period to the present, their role in shaping society has remained central. He added that initiatives undertaken under the double-engine government are helping women move forward with greater independence and dignity.
Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh has taken several steps to strengthen women’s participation. Fifty percent reservation in local bodies has provided leadership opportunities, with a visible impact at the grassroots. Initiatives such as the ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’ are supporting women socially and economically.
He said it is notable that while the country is discussing women’s reservation, Chhattisgarh is observing ‘Mahtari Gaurav Varsh’. People hold ‘Chhattisgarh Mahtari’ in high regard, and women’s participation now defines the state’s identity.
Chief Minister urged women and women-centric organisations to raise their voice on every platform and take part in this process of change. He expressed confidence that greater participation of women will strengthen democracy and lead to positive social change.
“When women are empowered, the nation grows stronger,” he said, adding that the time has come to ensure equal rights and a decisive role for women in development.
Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Rajya Sabha MP Laxmi Verma, MLA Purandar Mishra, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
